Thompson & Morgan Cornus Kousa - 9Cm Potted Plant - X 3
Cornus kousa stands as a stunning small tree, captivating with its ever-changing display throughou...Cornus kousa stands as a stunning small tree, captivating with its ever-changing display throughout the seasons. Spring ushers in a lush canopy of fresh green leaves, transforming into an enchanting spectacle of elegant white flowers in summer. As autumn arrives, the blossoms of this Flowering Dogwood transition into small red strawberry-like fruits, gracefully adorning the foliage, which takes on a captivating purple-bronze hue. This is an uncomplicated, low-maintenance choice for introducing structural interest to a border, shrubbery, or showcasing as a striking standalone specimen. It attains a height of 7m (23') and a spread of 5m (16'). Note that plant height and spread fluctuate with the seasons, and our listing is based on pot size rather than fixed dimensions. Cornus kousa, also known as the Flowering Dogwood, is a truly spectacular small tree that offers year-round interest. In spring, it showcases a lush canopy of fresh green leaves, transitioning to elegant white flowers that illuminate the summer garden. By autumn, the white blooms develop into small red fruits resembling strawberries, beautifully contrasting with the foliage as it turns a stunning purple-bronze. This low-maintenance tree is perfect for adding structural interest to borders or shrubbery, or for making a statement as a free-standing specimen. Cornus kousa is easy to grow and brings a changing display of colour and texture throughout the seasons, making it a versatile and eye-catching addition to any garden. How to Grow: Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Temperature: Hardy and adaptable to various climates. Watering: Regular watering; ensure soil is well-drained. Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring. Humidity: Thrives in moderate humidity; avoid waterlogging. Varieties Included: Cornus kousa: Small tree with white flowers, red fruits, and purple-bronze autumn foliage; ideal for adding seasonal interest. Images shown are for guidance only and show the expected results of plants upon maturity. Different growing conditions might vary results. Image may be included for illustration of supply but can vary due to seasonality changes (e.g. deciduous plants lose leaves in colder months). Decorative pots are not supplied. Features: Well-known flowering Japanese dogwood, a beautiful hardy shrub-like small tree its outstanding feature of showy four-petaled flowers appear in late spring Specifications: Dimensions: H:9 x W:9 x D:9 cm Weight: 1.6 kg Colour: Red Guarantee: 1 Year Model Number: KA8380
The Thompson & Morgan Cornus Kousa is a stunning, low-maintenance small tree perfect for gardeners seeking year-round visual interest. Its key benefit is its ever-changing display of lush green leaves, elegant white summer flowers, strawberry-like red fruits, and vibrant purple-bronze autumn foliage. A potential caveat is that plant dimensions can fluctuate seasonally, and decorative pots are not supplied.
All features
Model Part Number
KA8380
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the best time to plant Cornus Kousa?
The best times to plant are in spring after the last frost or in early autumn before the ground freezes. This allows the roots to establish before extreme weather.
How large does the Cornus Kousa grow?
It typically reaches a height of up to 7 meters (23') with a spread of about 5 meters (16'), though actual dimensions can vary with growing conditions and season.
Does it need full sun?
Cornus kousa prefers full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate shade, more sun generally leads to better flowering and fall color.
Will the red fruits attract birds?
Yes, the small red fruits can attract birds to your garden, adding another layer of wildlife interest.
Is it a deciduous tree?
Yes, Cornus kousa is a deciduous tree, meaning it loses its leaves in the autumn and winter months.
How do I care for it in winter?
In winter, ensure the soil has good drainage. If planted in a very cold or exposed location, a layer of mulch can help protect the roots. Deciduous trees naturally go dormant.
Can this plant be grown in a pot?
While it's supplied in a pot, Cornus kousa is best planted in the ground to achieve its full potential size and develop a strong root system. If container growing is necessary, use a large pot with excellent drainage and be diligent with watering.
Troubleshooting
Yellowing leaves
This can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is well-drained and adjust watering frequency. It can also be a sign of nutrient deficiency; consider a balanced spring fertilizer.
Lack of flowers
Ensure the tree is receiving adequate sunlight (at least partial shade). Young trees may also take a few years to establish before flowering prolifically. Avoid pruning in late winter/early spring when flower buds are forming.
Pests or diseases
Cornus kousa is generally resistant. Monitor for common issues like aphids or leaf spot. Treat with appropriate organic or chemical controls if necessary, and ensure good air circulation.
Slow growth
Ensure consistent watering and adequate feeding in spring. Check soil drainage; roots may be waterlogged. Patience is key, as trees establish over time.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Provides year-round visual interest with changing foliage and flowers.
Relatively low maintenance, making it suitable for most gardeners.
Adds significant structural beauty to garden designs.
Attractive to pollinators with its late spring blooms.
Hardy and adaptable to a range of growing conditions.
Cons
Plant dimensions may vary seasonally and are based on pot size, not fixed height.
Decorative pots are not included with the plant.
Requires regular watering, especially when young, to establish well.
Can take time to reach mature size and full display potential.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
**Planting:
Location: Choose a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. While adaptable, it thrives with at least some direct sunlight.
Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and just as deep. Gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the hole.
Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly.
**Care:
Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year and dry spells, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth appears.
Pruning: Generally requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Aim to maintain a pleasing natural shape.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk, to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
**Compatibility:
Climate: Hardy and adaptable to most temperate climates.
Companion Planting: Pairs well with a variety of shrubs and perennials that enjoy similar light conditions.